Global soccer union sticks up for MLS players

FIFPro, the union that represents soccer players worldwide, thinks Major League Soccer players are getting a raw deal.

Judging by the salaries of some of the Sounders players, the union might have a point. (If you missed Todd Dybas’ analysis of the Sounders roster, including salaries for all the players, check it out here (Part 1,Part 2, Part 3).

FIFPro biggest beef with MLS is its refusal to recognize the Regulations on the Status and Transfer of Players (RSTP). The union drafted a resolution calling for the U.S. league to abide by FIFA conventions in the next collective bargaining agreement. The current agreement expires Feb. 1, 2010.

The MLS practices opposed by the union include non-guaranteed contracts, cartel operation of the league and no freedom of movement for MLS players.

The league is structured as it is mostly for financial reasons. The cartel operation keeps smaller-market teams afloat. The strict salary guideline and rules on player transfers are intended to keep the league competitive.

The league is good for players such as Freddie Ljungberg, who made $1,314,000 last season as the Sounders’ designated player. But it can be a struggle for lower-profile athletes. Jhon Kennedy Hurtado, a finalist for MLS Defender of the Year, made just $37,000.

More protection from the collective bargaining agreement could level that playing field a bit, but it might be a big hit for the league’s financial health.